3 burning questions for the Seahawks during training camp

Who will start on the offensive line?

The Seahawks went out and seemingly bought up every low to mid-grade offensive lineman on the market. The team had 19 offensive linemen at one point. I know Coach Carroll loves competition, but this felt like overkill.

It was a very odd move considering with this unusual off-season, it will be increasingly difficult for newcomers (and rookies) to crack the starting roster. There simply isn’t enough in-game action before the season to gain the necessary trust from the coaching staff. This is where the problem lies.

The Seahawks have only two returning starters from last year on the roster. That would be left tackle Duane Brown and left guard Mike Iupati. Brown is a shoo-in for the starting left tackle spot. However, the left guard is still open for competition.

I feel confident that the center will be manned by BJ Finney. He was more or less their big-name acquisition if you can call it that. He hails from the Pittsburgh Steelers. He played all over the offensive line but really proved his worth filling in for center Maurkice Pouncey last year. I am honestly excited to see him get reps.

However, it is also possible that Ethan Pocic bounces back from a down year to finally establish himself. The team has given him first-team reps multiple times thus far in training camp. There must be some level of trust.

As for the guards, there are 3 youngsters and a veteran vying for the two spots. Mike Iupati who is a run blocking mauler through and through. Phil Haynes who is a brick wall and played admirably against the Packers in the Playoffs.

Jamarco Jones who has shown solid technical refinement when given the opportunity. Finally, the Seahawks third-round draft pick Damien Lewis. Lewis is an absolute animal. When Seattle drafted him, it was a pinch-me kind of moment. I think will be a superstar in the NFL.

At right tackle, it looks to be Brandon Shell’s job to lose. He is a solid pass protector and plays very well against speed rushers. However, he is below average as a run blocker and is susceptible to the bull rush.

The other option is Cedric Ogbuehi. He possesses a lot of untapped athletic potential. However, I think the coaching staff likely has more of a George Fant role in mind for him.

There are a lot of question marks in the front 5. It will be interesting to see what ends up happening. It’s very possible some player gets released that Seattle scoops up that shifts this whole dynamic. An example would be Atlanta releasing former All-Pro center Alex Mack.

Regardless, I see more potential with this group than I have since Seattle’s last Super Bowl appearance. The perfect compliment of veteran leadership and untapped potential in rookies. This feels like the year Seattle’s offensive line finally takes the next step.

My prediction for the starting 5: Duane Brown, Mike Iupati, BJ Finney, Damien Lewis, Brandon Shell